Ukrainian Drone Strikes Hit Russian Facilities

Ukrainian drone strikes have intensified, targeting several energy and military facilities across central Russia, including chemical plants, an ammunition depot, and oil refineries. These attacks are seen as both a response to Moscow's ongoing strikes on Ukraine and a strategic move to weaken Russia's oil supply amidst rising tensions as Donald Trump prepares to take office. Notably, a drone strike in Tatarstan resulted in a fire at a liquefied gas depot, while other strikes caused significant damage in the Saratov region. Ukrainian officials have highlighted the vulnerabilities of Russian air defenses and the broader economic implications of these strikes, which aim to disrupt Moscow's ability to wage war. The Ukrainian government is likely motivated to maximize damage before potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy following Trump's inauguration. Analysts predict that Kyiv will continue to target critical infrastructure in order to undermine Russia's financial stability and military capabilities.